A Pattern to Car Theft

A car is stolen every 48 seconds in the United States, meaning that nearly a million cars are stolen every year.

There’s typically one underlying motivation for stealing a car, and that is the money that people stand to make from either selling the vehicle intact, shipping it overseas, or breaking it into pieces and selling it for parts.

There are several factors that play into whether your car becomes a target. Factors include the make and model as well as where you park it. A running car is a particularly easy target, and criminals love finding spare keys in or around cars.

However, there are a few things the criminals hate, including:

Daylight and well-lit locations

Kill switches

Loud alarms

Nosey neighbors

Security cameras

– Understanding What Makes Some Cars Bigger Targets

The criminals are looking for certain models that are easier to sell or have a high demand for second-hand parts.

However, they’re also on the lookout for easy marks where they can get in and out quick while making some easy cash.

Here are the top mistakes car owners can make when it comes to protecting their vehicles:

Leave the car doors unlocked

Park in dark or deserted areas

Neglect to use anti-theft systems or alarms

Leave the car unlocked or running while in the driveway

Assume that an old car is safe from theft

Leave valuables out in plain view

– Where You Live Matters

Where you live can also make a difference in your risk level. Throughout Florida, there are certain hot spots that are simply more popular among thieves.

These hot spots include:

The 10 most populous counties, including Dade, Broward, and Hillsborough

Apartment community parking lots and apartment parking garages

Household driveways

You should especially be just as cautious at home as you are when out running errands. Criminals are always looking for targets, and a quiet neighborhood at night is more attractive than the mall parking lot in the middle of the day.

– Choose the Right Home

You can protect yourself by choosing the right type of home. It’s not just about finding a nice neighborhood with low crime rates.

You really want to look for certain home features that will help keep your property safe, including:

Streetlights that come on at dark

Exterior home lighting that will eliminate most shadows around the car

Lockable garage where you can keep your car a little safer

10 Most Stolen Vehicles in Florida

Nothing on this list is considered a high-end car, but one just might be out in your driveway. Peruse the vehicles below to find whether the car you own made it on Florida’s top 10 list. If you own one of these cars, then you may want to invest in anti-crime systems and better insurance.

#10 – 2014 Nissan Maxima

The Maxima consistently gets high marks from consumer groups, and it’s one of the most popular cars in the country. This popularity may be why it makes the top ten list in Florida with 479 thefts in 2015 alone.

When cars are in high demand, they also have an increased demand for expensive replacement parts. By parting out the car and selling the pieces off, thieves can maximize their profit levels while tidily disposing of evidence.

#9 – 2005 Dodge Pickup (Full Size)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_zU_5MYaIE

The Dodge trucks have a reputation for being hardworking and reliable, and the older Rams are still on the road.

Current owners may also need parts that are becoming harder to find. The scarcity of parts may be why 534 of these trucks vanished from properties throughout Florida.

#8 – 2015 Chevrolet Impala

The Impala is a non-assuming yet attractive car. It’s popular with families and commuters alike, and thieves helped themselves to 542 last year.

Experts believe that several factors play into the high theft levels for the Impala, including the black market for parts and the fact that they’re easy to break into.

#7 – 2015 Chevrolet Pickup (Full Size)

There were 786 Chevy pickups were stolen last year, and this may be a reflection of how popular the Silverado has become.

Authorities urge owners of these cars to park their trucks at the head of the driveway with another vehicle behind it to essentially secure it in place until you’re ready to use the truck.

#6 – 2014 Toyota Corolla

The Corolla comes loaded with technological features and cool accessories, and that also makes this car a prime target for thieves. The car is popular with the American public, and that will keep it a top choice among car thieves.

914 were stolen in Florida, so owners are encouraged to use anti-theft systems and keep their cars locked.

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#5 – 1997 Honda Accord

Honda Accords are a top choice among criminals across the country, and Florida is no exception with 1,025 models being stolen in one year.

Honda has attempted to address this long-running problem with anti-theft measures, but this car continues to be in the top ten across the nation.

In addition to keeping your Honda locked at all times, you also may want to invest in better insurance.

#4 – 2014 Toyota Camry

Families love the Camry, and so do car thieves.

With 1,089 models stolen in Florida alone, it’s clear that the Camry is a high-risk car that may cost you a little more to insure.

Models from the late 1990s are the most popular because they were easy to steal, but recent changes from the manufacturer have helped to reverse this trend.

#3 – 2015 Nissan Altima

This car made the top list for the entire nation, so it’s no surprise that 1,098 were stolen in the Sunshine State.

Auto theft is only covered under the comprehensive part of your insurance plan, so plan on investing in this upgrade if you’re interested in this sport, family-friendly car.

#2 – 2000 Honda Civic

It’s important to note that newer models are not stolen as frequently thanks to improvements in technology and anti-theft systems, but older models in the 2000 are still in high demand.

#1 – 2006 Ford Pickup (Full Size)

In addition to taking 2,070 trucks, criminals also love stealing things out of the beds of trucks.

If you’re a tradesman who travels with tools, then you should add locking tool boxes or even a cap to your truck to protect the contents. Keep the truck doors and windows locked, and be sure to get a quality anti-theft alarm to reduce your risk of theft.

Steps You Can Take to Avoid Car Theft

If you’re feeling a little concerned about the high risk of car theft, then you’ll be relieved to learn that there are at least a dozen ways to protect your investment and keep your insurance rates down.